I have often said that watches are the ultimate form of self-expression. At six years old, when I saw a contemporary of my father's wearing a yellow-dial dive watch on a yellow strap, it stood out because it was so different from regular old boring finance-guy attire (read: a gold Rolex). When I saw that watch, I learned that watches are a way to tell others something about you. And for me, that has made watches, and the people behind them, fascinating.

Harry Winston, renowned for its exquisite jewelry and precious gems, embarked on a transformative journey in 1998 to breathe new life into its watch department. The Opus Project came to define an era of independent watchmaking. It pushed the boundaries of what most people thought possible for a traditional brand like Harry Winston and was completely unexpected. It was an innovative decision that spurred creativity, collaborations, and increased the visibility of independent watchmakers and shed light on the watchmakers, and the power of collaboration in an industry that remained resistant to change.